Acoustic Neuroma Awareness Week 2015 is celebrated nationwide May 10 – 16.
According to the Acoustic Neuroma Association, acoustic neuroma is a slow-growing tumor of the nerve that connects the ear to the brain. This nerve is called the vestibular cochlear nerve and is located behind the ear, right under the brain.
Typical symptoms include hearing loss or deafness, pressure in the inner ear, impaired sense of balance and ability to walk, as well as vertigo with associated nausea and vomiting. Many patients report tinnitus, or ringing in the ear.
Acoustic neuromas can also affect the facial area, but are usually discovered before they cause facial symptoms. However, if they are large or impacting one of the facial nerves, they can cause numbness, tingling or even paralysis.
Studies show that stereotactic radiosurgery is an excellent treatment approach for patients with acoustic neuroma because the tumor is controlled approximately 95% of the time, and the risk of serious side effects is extremely low.
Our center uses CyberKnife® technology, an advanced form of radiation therapy that does not require anesthesia, incisions or a prolonged recovery time, to deliver focused radiation treatment. The underlying premise is to treat the tumor with a high dose of radiation, while sparing the nerves and brain tissues.
Contact Columbus CyberKnife today at (614) 898-8300 to find out if CyberKnife can be integrated into your acoustic neuroma treatment plan.
This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.